agency work and numeracy test

Silverdragon102, BSN · Dec 12, 2005

Hello
I have recently applied for some agency work as I want to get some hands on experience before my Nursing course (thats if i am accepted) I work as a volunteer in a hospice FOR OVER A YEAR NOW and having spoken to a few agency workers and learnt that in general you get treated like dirt where the nurses take advantage of you because your new and not experienced. I am concerned and was wondering can anyone give some sound advice.
Lisa1

I have never knowningly taken advantage of someone new and inexperienced but it I would say that it is up to you to make sure that they know you are new and inexperienced and where possible to place you with someone with experience to help you on your way. It does happen but a lot of the times I have seen/heard it done was because the person didn't speak up. Would also suggest maybe starting in a area which isn't too busy like an admission unit or A&E as it would be hard to place you with someone with experience. If you are asked to do anything you are not sure about I would always stress to make sure you tell them you are not happy to do it and why. It may be simply sorted by showing you and not put you in a situation not nice for both the patient and you.

english_nurse · Dec 12, 2005

Hello
I have recently applied for some agency work as I want to get some hands on experience before my Nursing course (thats if i am accepted) I work as a volunteer in a hospice FOR OVER A YEAR NOW and having spoken to a few agency workers and learnt that in general you get treated like dirt where the nurses take advantage of you because your new and not experienced. I am concerned and was wondering can anyone give some sound advice.
ALso, the dreaded numercay test is looming :rotfl: for my nurse course. Anyone done it yet and can offer some feed back?
Lisa1

blimy!!

it sounds to me that someone is trying to put you off.

nursing is the same as any other profession, if you allow people to take advantage then there is a good chance they will

be strong and take things as you find them thats my advice.

madwife2002, BSN, RN · Dec 16, 2005

Just ask all the time and ask what you can do to help, show willing and I'm sure you will be fine. Where I worked we never took advantage of the agency nurses because we we grateful for their help.